The Denver Broncos have reportedly strengthened their quarterback depth for the 2025 season by signing former Texas Longhorns standout and Indianapolis Colts sixth-round pick Sam Ehlinger to a one-year contract.
Jordan Schultz first broke the news, also shedding light on why Ehlinger chose Denver over other interested teams. According to Schultz, Ehlinger saw the best fit with head coach Sean Payton and quarterbacks coach Davis Webb, joining a QB room that includes Bo Nix and Jarrett Stidham.
With Zach Wilson departing for the Miami Dolphins, the Broncos had an opening for a third quarterback, and Ehlinger is a solid, albeit somewhat unexpected, choice. While not a former first-round pick, he brings value to the quarterback room and is well-equipped to handle preseason snaps—a role he’s frequently played during his four seasons with the Colts.
One of Ehlinger’s strengths has always been his ability to run the football. At Texas, he recorded 33 rushing touchdowns, and he continues to showcase that mobility in the preseason. While he may not be as dynamic as Taysom Hill, his physical running style could offer an intriguing wrinkle if needed.
Though it’s unlikely Ehlinger will have designed plays in the offense, his rushing ability makes for an interesting consideration. For now, he is expected to be a camp arm, taking preseason reps. Whether he’ll be holding a clipboard on the sidelines during the regular season remains to be seen, but with the NFL’s rule allowing teams to dress an emergency third quarterback each week, having a reliable option like Ehlinger makes sense.
Beyond his on-field skills, Ehlinger has a strong reputation as a beloved teammate dating back to his Texas days. His presence in the quarterback room and the locker room is a valuable asset, and his decision to join the Broncos further highlights the appeal of working with quarterbacks coach Davis Webb.